Dinner

Grilled Shrimp Pineapple Skewers

Name: Grilled Shrimp Pineapple Skewers
Prep time: 40 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 48 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup pineapple chunks; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon ginger powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Skewers

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This grilled shrimp pineapple skewer recipe is bright, sweet, and smoky. Juicy shrimp meet caramelized pineapple on the grill. The honey-soy marinade adds a savory-sweet glaze. These skewers are quick to make and full of fresh flavor. Try them for a weeknight dinner or a summer cookout — they smell amazing and look colorful on the plate. For another shrimp idea that cooks fast, see this Air Fryer Bang Bang Shrimp for a spicy, crispy twist.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 40 minutes (10 minutes active + 30 minutes marinade)
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 48 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: ~215 kcal
Protein: ~27 g
Carbohydrates: ~10 g
Fat: ~8 g
Fiber: ~0.6 g
Sugar: ~8 g
Sodium: ~600 mg

Why Make This Grilled Shrimp Pineapple Skewers

This recipe is fast, bright, and crowd-pleasing. Shrimp grills quickly and soaks up the sweet-savory marinade. Pineapple caramelizes and adds juicy bursts of tang and sweetness. The skewers look festive and serve well at parties, on weeknights, or as a protein for a light summer meal. The textures — tender shrimp and slightly charred pineapple — and the scent of grilled honey-soy glaze make this dish irresistible.

How to Make Grilled Shrimp Pineapple Skewers

Start by mixing the marinade. Let shrimp and pineapple soak for 30 minutes so they absorb flavor. Thread them on skewers for easy grilling. Grill briefly on high heat so the shrimp stay tender and the pineapple chars lightly. Finish with a squeeze of lime or fresh herbs if you like. This method keeps the shrimp juicy and gives a glossy, caramelized finish.

Ingredients:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup pineapple chunks
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ginger powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Skewers

Directions:

Step 1: Preparation

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning. Cut pineapple into uniform chunks if needed. Line a tray or bowl for marinating.

Step 2: Mixing

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, ginger powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Add the shrimp and pineapple chunks. Toss gently to coat everything. Cover and let sit in the fridge for 30 minutes so the flavors meld.

Step 3: Cooking

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Thread shrimp and pineapple onto skewers, alternating pieces. Place skewers on the grill. Grill for about 2–3 minutes per side, turning once, until shrimp turn opaque and firm and pineapple shows light char marks. Total grill time is about 6–8 minutes.

Step 4: Finishing

Remove skewers from the grill and let rest for a minute. Brush with any reserved marinade if desired (heat reserved marinade to a boil before using), or squeeze fresh lime over the top. Serve warm.

How to Serve Grilled Shrimp Pineapple Skewers

Serve these skewers right away for best texture. They pair well with:

Steamed rice or coconut rice
A fresh green salad or coleslaw
Grilled vegetables like peppers and zucchini
Warm tortillas for tacos
Garnish with chopped cilantro, lime wedges, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for a bright finish. The skewers taste sweet, slightly smoky, and savory with each bite.

How to Store Grilled Shrimp Pineapple Skewers

Refrigerator: Store cooled skewers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a low oven (300°F / 150°C) for 8–10 minutes or briefly on a hot skillet to avoid overcooking.
Freezing: Cooked shrimp lose texture when frozen, so freezing is not recommended. If needed, freeze ungrilled marinated shrimp and pineapple in a sealed bag for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before grilling.
Tip: Store sauce separately and reheat only once to keep shrimp tender.

Expert Tips for Perfect Grilled Shrimp Pineapple Skewers

Choose large shrimp so they don’t dry out while grilling.
Pat shrimp dry before marinating to help the glaze stick.
Do not over-marinate shrimp (30 minutes is enough). Acidic marinades can make shrimp tough.
Keep pieces uniform for even cooking.
Use high heat for quick searing and nice char without overcooking.
If using bamboo skewers, soak them to prevent burning.
Reserve a little marinade before adding raw shrimp to brush on at the end (boil the reserved marinade first).

Delicious Variations

Spicy Honey-Soy: Add 1 teaspoon sriracha or chili flakes to the marinade.
Teriyaki Twist: Swap honey and soy for 3 tablespoons teriyaki sauce and 1 teaspoon sesame oil.
Citrus-Herb: Add lime zest and chopped cilantro to the marinade for bright flavor.
Coconut Pineapple: Serve over coconut rice and sprinkle toasted coconut flakes.
Veggie Boost: Alternate shrimp and pineapple with bell peppers, red onion, or cherry tomatoes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I tell when shrimp are fully cooked?
A: Cooked shrimp turn opaque and pink with a firm texture. The tail should curl into a loose C shape. Overcooked shrimp feel rubbery, so grill briefly and watch closely.

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes. Thaw shrimp fully in the refrigerator or under cold running water, pat dry, then marinate. Do not use if it is still icy, as it won’t absorb the marinade.

Q: What can I use instead of soy sauce to lower sodium?
A: Use low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos. Both keep the umami flavor with less salt. Taste and adjust seasoning before grilling.

Q: Can I bake these instead of grilling?
A: Yes. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Arrange skewers on a baking sheet and bake 6–8 minutes, then broil 1–2 minutes to get some char. Watch so shrimp don’t overcook.

Q: How long should I marinate the shrimp?
A: 30 minutes is ideal. A short marinade adds flavor without breaking down the shrimp’s texture. Avoid marinating for hours.

Q: Can I prepare these ahead for a party?
A: Thread the shrimp and pineapple and keep them covered in the fridge for a few hours. Grill just before serving for best texture and flavor.

Conclusion

These grilled shrimp pineapple skewers are quick, colorful, and full of sweet-savory flavor. They grill in minutes, smell wonderful, and are perfect for casual dinners or outdoor gatherings. For another take on shrimp with bold flavor, check out this Grilled Shrimp Pineapple Skewers – Urban Bliss Life recipe for inspiration and serving ideas. Give these skewers a try — they’re easy, tasty, and sure to please.